Orthodoc:
> ORTHODOX HOUSES TO BE TORN DOWN IN JERUSALEM> > Jerusalem, 17 October 2002 (13:36 UTC+2)> > The Jerusalem Patriarchate is appealing to the Israeli authorities to reconsider their decision to tear down 100 houses built by the Greek Orthodox community in the village of Beit Sahur.> > In 1995, the Holy Synod of the Patriarchy offered its flock a long term lease agreement, for 20 stremma inside the Beit Sehur mayoralty district. One hundred houses were built there which the Israeli authorities have decided to tear down.> > "The astonishment, disappointment, pain and distress of these people, who are spiritual children of the Patriarchate, are being dealt with compassionately and with understanding by all Greek Orthodox communities. The Patriarchate will not give up trying and using all legal means at its disposal to protect the livelihood of its spiritual children in Beit Sahur at this time of trial," stressed the Patriarchate in its announcement.> > Finally, the Patriarchate appealed to all people, regardless of race or religion, to support its efforts to protect the living testimony of a Christian presence in the land where Christ was born.